Workers at an automotive seat factory in Mississippi are protesting what they say are low wages and poor working conditions as they attempt to unionize in what could become a new front for the United Auto Workers in the state.

Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen said Tuesday that the U.S. economy is making steady progress, but the Fed remains patient in raising interest rates because too many Americans are still unemployed, wage growth remains sluggish and inflation is too low.

Daicel Corp. saidl it will build a second U.S. factory next year, as the Japanese chemical manufacturer expands operations to supply replacement parts for vehicles recalled globally for potentially defective air bags made by Takata Corp.

The head of the United Autoworkers union recognizes the need to ensure the long-term health of the U.S. auto industry. But as the UAW prepares to enter negotiations with the "Big Three" auto companies — General Motors, Ford and Fiat Chrysler — Dennis Williams says the union is prepared to call for its members to walk out.